What does exploration mean to you? Sometimes it’s discovering a new hiking trail. Or a book recommended by a friend. Sometimes exploration means slowing down. Listening. Seeing your world in a new way. Mindful reflection is what youth programming at Hearty Roots is all about. Through one-on-one nature-based opportunities, local kids adventure outside with a qualified mentor to use Maine’s wild as a guide. We all know walking and talking feels good. For adults. For little kids and their big emotions. For teens and their complex questions. “Walking in the woods is the perfect way to process,” says Lauren Cucci, Hearty Roots Adventure Mentor. “A trail’s pathway allows for discussion and silence and everything in between.” On a recent journey, a reflective adventure led to mindful art with fall providing the materials for a mandala.

As we revel in the fall while our colorful days give over to winter, what do you want to explore? Journey on over to heartyroots.org to discover after-school outing clubs, teen retreats, and more. We can’t wait to meet you in nature, where our journeys overlap.